Haunted Destination: Amargosa Opera House

Death Valley Junction, California

Photo by: Ken Lund, flickr

Ken Lund, flickr

Death Valley Junction, California

It’s not just the lurking, lonely spirits that give Death Valley Junction, CA, a reputation as a ghost town -- the population (of the living) only numbers about 20. The dusty town’s buildings were constructed by the Pacific Borax Mining Company in the 1920s, and many have fallen into a state of disrepair. The town has no gas station and only one restaurant – a café that’s part of the Amargosa Opera House and Hotel, a strange desert outpost that was lovingly repaired by Marta Becket in the 1960s. A dancer, Marta gave performances (sometimes to an empty audience) in the theatre up until February 2012. If you’re lucky enough to visit the un-renovated, abandoned part of the hotel, you’re sure to learn why it’s now referred to as “Spooky Hollow.”

Next Up

Top 5 Places to Stay in Nashville

See our picks for top hotels in Nashville.

The Newest Reasons to Visit Miami Beach

Learn about Miami Beach's newest hotels, restaurants and more.

5 Family Adventures in Hawaii

Put the phones down and make memories to last a lifetime with these thrilling activities on the island of Hawaii.

10 Wild West Family Adventures

Discover how Buffalo Bill, U.S. soldiers, railroaders and Pony Express riders opened the west.

The Terrifying History Of The Most Haunted Doll In The World

Robert the Doll’s terror is so widespread that his exhibit includes letters from visitors begging his forgiveness.

24-Hour Guide to Detroit

See why the Motor City is one of the country's hottest travel destinations.

Memphis: An Insider's Guide to This Funky Southern City

Experience the city's lesser known wonders.

This Majorly Discounted CityPASS Will Let You Visit 5 of Seattle’s Best Attractions for a Fraction of the Cost

Save big on admission tickets to some of Seattle's best attractions like the Space Needle, Museum of Pop Culture and more.

Off-Season Awesome in Big Sky, Montana

Experience epic outdoor adventures.

Underground Music City: Nashville Venues Only Locals Know

From pop to Motown, there's a place for every music genre in Music City. But not all venues may come up on the map. Escape the tourist traps and see live music like a local at these underground spots.

More Creepy Content

Follow Us Everywhere

Join the party! Don't miss Travel Channel in your favorite social media feeds.